The Nashua Mobile Cape Cobras have welcomed Proteas batsman Hashim Amla, who will be joining the team for the 2013/14 season. ‘It is a big compliment that one of the greats of the world game has decided to join us” said WCC Chairman, Beresford Williams. CEO Andre Odendaal echoed these views, saying: “I do not think we fully appreciate yet how highly history will measure Hashim’s value to South African cricket and, besides his brilliance on the field and humility off it, he will add to a diversity that the Cobras prize – and believe to be a precondition for excellence and success.” The Nashua Mobile Cape Cobras have won five trophies in the last three seasons and coach Paul Adams wants to keep the success graph going upwards: “We understand that Hashim will not play a lot for us, but he adds depth and aura to a brand that we want to make the best. He is the perfect guy to have in any team.” All three of the recently-announced Wisden Cricketers of the Year from South Africa are now Cobras players, and no less than eight Cobras currently have National Proteas contracts. Five of the eight are among the star black players in the country. The WCC Chairman stressed in conclusion that WCC did not try to lure Amla away from his old franchise. He said: “We regret any breakdown that may have occurred there, but we now welcome him with open arms and trust he will grow further as a person and player with us.” Notes: For media queries please contact Professor Andre Odendaal - Andre Odendaal [andre@wccricket.co.za]